what have i done

[So Cal Mark]

should be gaskets on each side of the spacer. What about the booster hose? It is on the back runner of the manifold, closest to 3 and 4. How did it run before changing the timing? Perfect idle? Detonation? Idle speed?
You should realize that 0 degrees timing was for emissions, not optimum performance. I'd suggest 10-12 btdc once you get your issues sorted out

[rja]

when i first started retarding the timing, i heard a pop (backfire) and car started missing. one or more of the studs holding the carb down were loose (one i actually changed because the threads were kinda 'thin') issues have been resolved now; car idles and pulls well w/timing about 15-18 btdc. vacuum about 18-20 at idle. still no gaskets; maybe built into spacer; carb cleaner sprayed around base shows no change in idle speed now. should have known the specs underhood were for emission controls- got a '78 midget that says to time it at 2 atdc. it runs well at 12-15 btdc. i've got a throttle bog at any less advanced timing than current; could be the marks are off a hair. so i'm back where i started. indicated timing seems too advanced, but no pinging on reg gas and pulls well to redline. i guess leaving well enough alone is good advice, but i bet i'm not the only 'tinkerer' out there. thanx to all that posted; the wealth of info here is amazing and the willingness to help unsurpassed. hopefully i won't remain 'ignorant' to all things fiat, and can pay this help forward oneday.

[fiat218]

Can't you get away from the dual points, seems to me my 69 had them and got convert to single

[rja]

it's my understanding that the dual points make starting easier. occasionally i still have trouble getting the starter to engage; if i have to push start, it makes it almost effortless.

[fiat218]

U need a new bendix for the starter?

[rja]

U need a new bendix for the starter?

i'm not exactly sure what it needs. i've run a 12v switched momentary circuit to the solenoid and that seems to work almost all the time. i kinda like it; it's hidden, and since the start position on the keyed switch rarely works, it makes for a good theft deterrent. i suppose if i have to repeatedly push it to get started, i will probably replace the starter/solenoid assembly completely. from what i understand, not a fun job. looks like pulling the carb and intake first is the way to go at it.

[fiat218]

I did not remove anything to get my starter out,I took it out the other day and order a new one from mark
Should be here today